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Activate - October 16, 2014

Key Verse: “But Ruth replied, ‘Don’t urge me to leave you or turn back from you. Where you go I will go, and where you stay I will stay. Your people will be my people and your God my God.’” - Ruth 1:16

It was an intense time of grieving: Naomi lost her husband and her sons. Ruth is Naomi’s daughter in-law, and she wants to help bring Naomi some comfort. Naomi decided that she would return to her homeland and encouraged Ruth to remain in Moab. Ruth made an unflinching decision to follow Naomi back to Judah. The strongest desire in Ruth’s heart was to continue to be with Naomi, and she communicates her commitment in this stunning promise.

Who spends time with you when you are grieving and discouraged? Who refuses to let you go into isolation? Has someone sacrificially given you the gift of their presence? God’s love and constant goodness is often experienced through people and relationships. Someone might be giving you permission to have distance, but they are really hoping you would draw near to them. Be discerning about who needs you care and reassurance. Ruth and Naomi had a friendship that kept God at the center. It is a great example for our family relationships too. Your presence can guide someone to the satisfying presence of God!